Operations Supervisor - Mixing and Grinding in Lawton, Oklahoma at Firehawk Aerospace Inc

Firehawk is a leading propulsion-focused aerospace and defense company located in Addison, TX. Our innovative approach empowers us to design and manufacture cutting-edge solid and rocket motors and engines. We aim to push the boundaries of propulsion technology to serve both commercial and defense sectors.

Position Details:
Firehawk Aerospace is hiring two Operations Supervisors to support critical energetics manufacturing operations at our Lawton, OK facility. One supervisor will specialize in Propellant Mixing, and the other will focus on Ammonium Perchlorate (AP) Grinding, with each role responsible for leading day to day operations, enforcing safety and regulatory compliance, executing SOPs with precision, and supporting cross functional workflow within a high risk energetic materials environment.

Responsibilities
Lead daily production operations for propellant mixing and/or ammonium perchlorate (AP) grinding, ensuring safe, consistent, and compliant execution of all processes.
Enforce strict adherence to SOPs, work instructions, sequencing, material addition timing, bowl/grinder cleaning procedures, and all regulatory safety protocols.
Maintain accurate production documentation, including batch sheets, grinding logs, safety records, quality documentation, and process traceability.
Oversee energetic materials handling activities such as weighing ingredients, loading bowls, transferring materials, and monitoring process conditions.
Prevent contamination by enforcing material segregation standards and proper cleaning of bowls, blades, grinders, and tools.
Coordinate workflow closely with Engineering, Quality, and Safety to ensure consistent process flow, regulatory compliance, and timely production support.
Monitor equipment performance and support preventative maintenance for mixers, grinders, tooling, and associated processing equipment.
Train and supervise operators and technicians, reinforcing high standards of safety, compliance, teamwork, and operational discipline.
Identify process deviations or safety concerns and drive timely corrective actions to maintain safe and efficient production.
Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on process stability, quality, efficiency, and safe materials handling.

Basic Qualifications
Associate degree or equivalent experience in manufacturing, chemical processing, energetics, or a related technical field
6+ years of experience in manufacturing, propellant mixing, chemical grinding, energetic materials handling, laboratory operations, or similar regulated environments
Strong understanding of OSHA, EHS, NFPA, ATF, and hazardous materials safety standards
Ability to follow detailed procedures, maintain accurate documentation, and manage batch record compliance
Experience supervising blue collar production teams; strong communication and leadership skills
Demonstrated ability to operate safely in high risk environments and enforce proper process discipline

Preferred Qualifications
Experience with ammonium perchlorate grinding, propellant mixing, or other energetic materials processes
Background in aerospace, defense, energetics, chemical manufacturing, fireworks/pyrotechnics, or other highly regulated industries
Experience with lean manufacturing or continuous improvement programs
Familiarity with ERP or documentation systems
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Chemistry, or a related field
10–12+ years of progressively responsible manufacturing or energetics experience

ITAR Requirements:
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements:
Employees in these positions must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and to use standard office equipment, including a computer; stamina to sit and to maintain attention to detail despite interruptions; may occasionally lift/carry/push/pull up to 25 pounds; may require minimal walking, standing for extended amounts of time, climbing, crouching, and/or bending; and vision to read printed materials and a computer screen, and hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone. May require the ability to travel by air or auto. May require the use of personal protective equipment such as safety glasses, safety shoes, and shop coat.

Security Clearance:
May be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance at the appropriate level. Requires U.S. Citizenship. Must also be able to satisfy federal government requirements for access to government information, and having dual citizenship may preclude you from being able to meet this requirement.

Benefits at Firehawk Aerospace
At Firehawk, we are committed to supporting the well-being of our employees and their families. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to provide peace of mind and help you thrive both personally and professionally.
Health Coverage: We offer 100% employer-paid medical premiums for employees and up to 75% coverage for dependents under select plans, with additional options for PPO and HDHP plans. Coverage begins the first of the month following your hire date.
Dental and Vision Plans: Affordable dental and vision plans with extensive coverage options, including preventive care, orthodontics, and allowances for contacts and frames.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Access to free, confidential services, including counseling, legal consultations, wellness coaching, and virtual concierge services to support your work-life balance.
Flexible Work Schedule: Enjoy a 9/80 schedule option, allowing for greater flexibility and work-life balance.
On-Site Perks: Complimentary snacks and refreshments to keep you energized throughout the day.
Professional Growth: Mentorship opportunities with industry-leading engineers and engagement in cutting-edge projects at the forefront of aerospace innovation.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
Firehawk is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Firehawk is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.